The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has expressed gratitude to top human rights lawyers, civil society groups, and activists following the release of its National Coordinator, Comrade Andrew Emelieze, from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Oyo State.

Emelieze, an Ibadan-based labour leader and former Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Oyo State, was freed on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, after spending 14 days in detention. He was initially detained on June 30, 2025, and rearrested shortly after his first release.

Reports indicate that his arrest was linked to his role in the formation of the Federal Workers Forum, a platform advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers.

In a joint statement signed by Emelieze, Comrade Itoro Obong (National Secretary), and Comrade Ogundele Ayo (Assistant Secretary), the FWF appreciated the "unwavering support and legal intervention" provided by notable lawyers such as Femi Falana (SAN), Barrister Femi Aborishade, Barrister Yusuff Akinola, and other legal practitioners from Abope Chambers.

The Forum also acknowledged the efforts of activists, workers, and concerned Nigerians who persistently demanded Emelieze’s release, describing his detention as part of a broader crackdown on labour movements and dissent under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

While welcoming their leader’s release, the FWF emphasized that the struggle for better working conditions is ongoing.

“Nigerian workers remain victims of systemic neglect and worsening economic hardship, compounded by inflation and stagnant wages,” the statement read.

The group condemned the inadequacy of the current minimum wage, insisting that it falls short of meeting the basic needs of families in the face of skyrocketing living costs.

“We call on the government to urgently address these economic challenges and consider the demands of workers in order to foster a more equitable and just society,” the statement added.

The Forum pledged to continue advocating for justice, fair compensation, and improved welfare for all Nigerian workers, despite state repression.